Cronulla RSL is proud to host the Weight of War Run in Cronulla on Saturday 5 December 2026, bringing the community together to raise awareness and support for the mental health and wellbeing of Australian veterans.

Following the success of last year’s event, the 2026 Cronulla event will be bigger, with the Club grounds becoming a basecamp for participants, supporters and the wider community. With entertainment, a BBQ, bar facilities and activities for families, the day will be an opportunity to come together, show support and get behind an important cause.

But Weight of War is about much more than the kilometres covered. It is about recognising the weight many veterans carry long after their service ends, including the invisible challenges that can come with military service, the transition to civilian life and the lasting impacts of trauma.

The signature challenge involves completing a half marathon while carrying a 10kg weighted vest and wearing a pair of budgy smugglers. The weight represents the invisible load many veterans carry, while the budgy smugglers symbolise the courage and vulnerability it can take to ask for help. By taking on the challenge, participants help start conversations about veteran mental health, connection and the importance of ensuring no one has to carry that weight alone.

Participants can choose from a range of distances, including 21km, 10km, 5km and a 1km walk, or set their own distance. The event is open to everyone, whether they have a Defence background or not. There are no placings, no prizes and no pressure to compete. It is about mateship, connection and showing up for a community that has given so much.

Funds raised through the event will support veteran mental health initiatives through Weight of War’s partners, Survive To Thrive Nation and Zero79 Foundation. Zero79 Foundation supports current and former members of Australia’s Special Operations 2nd Commando Regiment community and their families. https://zero79foundation.com/

Cronulla RSL is proud to support an event that aligns with its ongoing commitment to the veteran community. By bringing people together through a shared challenge, Weight of War creates an opportunity to raise awareness, strengthen connections and encourage meaningful conversations about the challenges veterans can face.

Cronulla RSL is also inviting local businesses, community organisations and supporters who would like to get behind the event to get involved. There are opportunities to support the day, participate as a team, donate or simply come along and show your support for participants as they take on the challenge.

The Weight of War Run will take place simultaneously in Cronulla, Brisbane, Karratha and Canberra on Saturday 5 December 2026. In Cronulla, the event will start and finish at Cronulla RSL.

Registrations are free and can be completed through the official Weight of War website at weightofwarrun.com. Donations can also be made to support the important work of the organisations assisting Australian veterans and their families.

For those looking to take on the full 21km challenge, Weight of War has developed a dedicated 13 week training program to help participants prepare for the physical and mental demands of completing a half marathon while carrying a 10kg weight vest. The program is designed to build fitness progressively and help participants prepare safely for the challenge. View the 21km Weighted Vest Running Program

Whether you take on 21km, walk 1km, volunteer, donate or simply cheer from the sidelines, Cronulla RSL is proud to be part of a community coming together to help carry the weight.

Event Day at Cronulla RSL

Cronulla RSL will become the home base for Weight of War on Saturday 5 December, with entertainment, a BBQ, bar facilities and activities creating a welcoming atmosphere for participants, families and supporters.

Event schedule

0900: Registration opens at Club Reception

1000: Honour Roll

1015: Welcome and participant briefing

1030: Staggered event starts

1045: Kids’ activities

1100: Bar service & BBQ Available

1500: Event concludes

Whether you're taking on the challenge, supporting a friend or family member, bringing the kids along or cheering from the sidelines, there will be plenty of ways to be part of the day.

SIGN UP HERE: https://www.weightofwarrun.com/

Learn more